Water Protection

Film records should be protected from possible water damage, such as from leaks, fire-sprinkler discharge, and flooding. If possible, storage facilities should be located above basement levels. Storage cabinets should be raised so that the lowest shelf or drawer is at least 15.2 cm (6 in.) off the floor and should be constructed so that water cannot splash through ventilating louvers onto the records. Drains provided should have adequate capacity to keep water from a sprinkler discharge from reaching a depth of 7.6 cm (3 in.).

If the record-storage area should become flooded, prompt steps should be taken to reclaim any immersed records. Allowing microfilm records

to dry, even partially, will cause the layers to stick together. If there are no local facilities for rewashing and drying the films immediately, promptly place the films in a water-filled container and send them to a laboratory where they can be washed and dried properly.10

Effects of High and Low

Relative Humidities

The choice of humidity level for storage depends on the type of photographic film and the humidity of the work area. In order to minimize subsequent moisture conditioning in storage, the humidity of the work area should not be markedly different from that of the storage area. Very large humidity differences may lead to some physical distortion. The best relative humidity for storage is the lowest that can be achieved practically and controlled reliably, within the limits specified

in ANSI/PIMA IT9.11-1998 and ISO 189115 or their latest revisions.

High Humidity

Storage in moist air, such as that frequently found in basement rooms, and storage humidities above 50% should be avoided; relative humidities of 40% or less are recommended for minimizing the possibility of growth of microscopic blemishes. At humidities above 60%, there is the additional danger of fungus growth.

These curves show the relationship between relative humidity and the moisture content of a typical emulsion, triacetate film base, Estar Base, and a complete film at equilibrium of various relative humidities at 21°C (70°F).

Low Humidity

At low humidities, problems of brittleness or static might arise if the films are to be handled frequently. However, in the case of inactive films (regardless of their intended permanence), the increased protection that low humidity gives against microscopic blemishes might be desirable. The recommended humidity is

30% for silver-gelatin polyester-base film and 15% for silver-gelatin acetate-base film and all other silver and non-silver films.5

D-31 June 2002

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Kodak D-31 manual Water Protection, Effects of High and Low Relative Humidities, High Humidity, Low Humidity
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D-31 specifications

Kodak D-31 is a color negative developer that has garnered attention for its unique set of features tailored to meet the demands of both professionals and enthusiasts in the field of photography. Designed primarily for use with color negative films, Kodak D-31 is known for delivering impressive results in terms of color reproduction, contrast, and image sharpness.

One of the standout characteristics of Kodak D-31 is its flexibility in processing various types of color negative films. This developer can be used for a range of ISO sensitivity ratings, making it versatile for different photographic situations. Whether capturing landscapes, portraits, or street photography, D-31 ensures that the vibrant colors and subtle tones of each scene are accurately represented.

The technology behind Kodak D-31 incorporates a balanced mixture of color-forming agents and stabilizers that contribute to its reliability. The developer uses a carefully controlled chemical composition that ensures consistent performance with minimal grain, which is a critical factor for photographers who demand high-quality prints. The result is images that display fine detail and smooth transitions in color, which can be particularly important in post-processing and printing.

Kodak D-31 is designed for easy use, featuring a simple processing workflow that can be followed even by those new to film development. The Developer can be used with standard tanks and is compatible with both manual and automatic processing equipment. This ease of use makes D-31 an excellent choice for educational settings and home darkrooms, as it allows users to focus more on the art of photography rather than the technicalities of the developing process.

An additional advantage of Kodak D-31 is its ability to deliver consistent results across different batches, which is essential for those looking to maintain a cohesive portfolio. Photographers can rest assured that each roll developed will yield similar results, thanks to the high degree of control in the chemical composition and the assurance of quality that Kodak has provided for decades.

In summary, Kodak D-31 stands out as a reliable, versatile, and high-performance color negative developer that is well-suited for a variety of photographic applications. Its thoughtful formulation offers photographers the ability to capture and reproduce color with precision, making it a preferred choice for both hobbyists and seasoned professionals alike. With its blend of technology and ease of use, D-31 continues to be a valuable tool for anyone looking to explore the rich world of color film photography.
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